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MS Megastar

MS Megastar is a fast ro-pax built in 2017 by in for the shipping company Silja, primarily operating on the – route across the [Baltic Sea](/page/Baltic Sea). With a length of 212 meters and a of 49,134 GT, the vessel accommodates up to 2,800 passengers, 150 cars, and 250 trucks, achieving a service speed of 27 knots for a crossing time of approximately two hours. Powered by five 50DF dual-fuel engines using (LNG), it features advanced environmental technologies that reduce CO₂ emissions by 25%, by 85%, and nearly eliminate SO₂ and particulate matter compared to traditional diesel engines. The ship includes 22 cabins, diverse dining options, tax-free shopping, and modern amenities like flexible seating and , catering to both leisure and business travelers on this high-traffic route that serves over 8 million passengers annually as of 2024. Christened by former President at a cost of €230 million, MS Megastar entered service in January 2017 and underwent its first drydocking in 2022 for maintenance, followed by planned technical maintenance in January 2025 and a transition to bio-LNG fuel targeted within 2026.

Development and Construction

Conception and Ordering

In December 2014, AS Grupp announced its order for a new (LNG)-powered ro-pax to expand its shuttle service on the Helsinki-Tallinn route. The decision followed the signing of a with Oy on 11 December, with the full contract finalized in February 2015. This initiative aimed to increase capacity on one of Europe's busiest short-sea passenger routes, where traffic had grown to approximately 8 million passengers by , reflecting rising demand for efficient crossings. The vessel was commissioned at a cost of approximately €230 million and selected Meyer Turku shipyard in as the builder, marking the seventh newbuilding for at the yard. The project provided around 2,000 person-years of employment for the shipyard and its suppliers, underscoring its economic significance. Strategically, the ferry was intended to replace the aging Baltic Princess while enhancing environmental compliance ahead of stricter emission regulations in the . The naming process began in late 2015 with a public contest that received 21,550 submissions, culminating in the selection of "Megastar" in January 2016. On 1 July 2016, the ship was officially christened MS Megastar at the shipyard by former Finnish President , who served as . This event highlighted the vessel's role in advancing sustainable maritime transport in the region.

Building Process

The construction of MS Megastar at the shipyard in commenced with the keel laying ceremony on 9 February 2016, marking the start of hull assembly for the LNG-powered ro-pax ferry. This traditional milestone involved placing the first block of the hull in the , initiating the fabrication of the vessel's steel structure, which was designed to accommodate integrated LNG storage and advanced propulsion components. Key shipyard activities during the build included the progressive fabrication of the hull sections, the installation of two LNG tanks integrated directly into the hull structure below deck 3 for enhanced space , and the subsequent interior outfitting to equip the passenger areas. The LNG tank integration represented an innovation over prior designs, embedding the 600 m³ capacity tanks within the vessel's framework rather than on deck, which optimized weight distribution and internal volume. Additionally, the integration of the diesel-electric propulsion system during this phase allowed the dual-fuel engines to generate electrical power for thrusters, improving and maneuverability without mechanical shaft coupling. The hull was floated out on 15 July 2016 for final outfitting in the water, transitioning the project to the completion of systems installation and interior finishing by teams. Following several months of , which encompassed electrical, , and decorative installations, the vessel was delivered to on 24 January 2017, on schedule and ready for operational trials.

Design and Technical Specifications

Hull and Dimensions

The MS Megastar features a robust designed for efficient operation on short-sea routes, measuring 212 meters in overall and 30.6 meters in , with a of 49,134 GT. These dimensions enable the to accommodate substantial and loads while maintaining in varying conditions. The incorporates a streamlined form optimized for the Sea's environmental challenges, including its 1A notation, which allows navigation through light ice without specialized assistance. The ship's structure comprises 12 passenger decks above the , providing ample space for amenities, while dedicated ro-ro spaces for are positioned below these decks to facilitate seamless loading and unloading. This vertical layout separates public areas from cargo operations, enhancing safety and operational flow. The vessel is registered in , , and sails under the Estonian flag, reflecting its primary service on regional routes.

Propulsion and Power Systems

The MS Megastar employs a diesel-electric propulsion system with two shafts, driving fixed-pitch propellers supplied by . This configuration allows the main engines to generate electricity for propulsion motors rather than direct mechanical drive, enabling flexible power distribution to auxiliary systems and optimizing efficiency during high-speed operations. The ship's powerplant consists of three main Wärtsilä 12V50DF dual-fuel engines and two auxiliary Wärtsilä 6L50DF dual-fuel engines, delivering a combined output of 45,600 kW. These engines support the vessel's dual-fuel capability, primarily utilizing (LNG) with as a secondary option, integrated via onboard LNG tanks that feed the propulsion and auxiliary systems. This setup enables a service speed of 27 knots, sufficient for the ship's primary Helsinki-Tallinn route, with observed maximum speeds reaching approximately 26 knots under operational conditions.

Environmental and Efficiency Features

The MS Megastar features two horizontal, vacuum-insulated cryogenic LNG tanks, each with a capacity of m³, integrated into the beneath the main for optimal utilization and . These tanks enable the vessel to store up to 600 m³ of , supporting extended operations on the Helsinki-Tallinn route while minimizing the need for frequent . Powered primarily by LNG, the ship achieves significant emission reductions compared to traditional diesel-fueled vessels, including 25% lower CO₂ emissions, 85% lower nitrogen oxide () emissions, virtually zero sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions, and nearly eliminated . This performance ensures compliance with (IMO) Tier III limits, which require an 80% reduction from earlier standards, and the Baltic Sea Sulphur (SECA) rules limiting sulfur content to 0.1%. The vessel's diesel-electric system, utilizing dual- engines to generate for electric driving the fixed-pitch propellers on two shafts, enhances fuel economy by allowing precise power management and reducing overall energy consumption during varying operational demands. As Tallink Grupp's first LNG-powered , the Megastar plays a pivotal role in the company's strategy to decarbonize its fleet, paving the way for subsequent vessels like the MyStar and supporting regional initiatives to lower maritime emissions through cleaner . As of October 2025, Tallink has begun transitioning the Megastar to bio-LNG bunker .

Facilities and Operations

Passenger Amenities

The MS Megastar has a passenger capacity of up to 2,800, with most travelers utilizing public seating areas and recliners during the short voyage, while 22 cabins provide private accommodations for those seeking enhanced comfort. These cabins are located on Deck 10 and include options such as A-Standard Sea View cabins (8 m², accommodating up to 5 persons with sea views, bunk beds, private WC/shower, air conditioning, and USB/sockets) and B-Standard Inside cabins (similar size, up to 5 persons, without windows but pet-friendly variants available). Accessible cabins offer widened doors (93 cm), SOS buttons, and single beds for up to 3 passengers, ensuring inclusivity for disabled travelers, while allergy-friendly options cater to specific needs. Dining facilities emphasize variety and convenience, with themed options spread across Decks 8 and 9 to suit different preferences. The Delight seats 400 and features with hot and cold dishes, while The Chef's Kitchen offers selections including Nordic-inspired meals. Fast Lane provides customizable quick-service meals, and delivers fast food staples; bars like the Sea Pub and Victory Bar serve drinks in relaxed atmospheres with sea views. Coffee & Co. acts as a casual for lighter fare and beverages, available for €0.50 per cup of hot water. For relaxation and wellness, the on board functions as a compact , offering and body treatments, hair services, manicures, and pedicures by appointment to provide a rejuvenating experience during the crossing. Children's amenities are centered in the Kids Harbour playroom on Deck 9, featuring a ball pit, craft s, Moomin-themed decorations, and a lounge for interactive fun, alongside a changing for parents. Conference facilities include a dedicated room on Deck 9 with 32 seats, equipped with data projectors and multimedia technology, suitable for meetings or group presentations. Entertainment and leisure options focus on accessible, low-key activities, including a within the Victory Bar area with games and seating lounges for relaxation. The Traveller Superstore spans two decks totaling 2,800 m² as a duty-free shopping , stocking , perfumes, , , and souvenirs, complemented by the smaller Lobby for essentials. coverage is available throughout public areas, with premium access in the Business and Comfort Lounges, which offer exclusive seating, complimentary non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, and quieter environments for an upgraded experience.

Vehicle and Cargo Capacity

The MS Megastar features dedicated vehicle decks configured in a roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) design, providing space for up to 150 passenger cars and 250 trucks or trailers across multiple levels. This capacity equates to 3,650 lane meters of garage space, optimized for efficient storage and maneuverability with multi-level parking arrangements and adjustable bulkheads to accommodate varying load sizes. The ro-ro setup includes bow and stern ramps, side doors, and internal lifts, enabling simultaneous loading and unloading on two levels to support the ship's high-volume operations between and . Cargo handling on the Megastar is integrated with flows to minimize turnaround times, featuring dedicated freight lanes that separate heavy vehicles from lighter cars while allowing direct access from the car deck to onboard areas for convenience. This design reduces delays during peak shuttle service, where quick loading and unloading via dual entry/exit points facilitate up to four daily crossings, enhancing overall efficiency for the 2,800- vessel. Adaptations for the high-frequency route include automated ramp systems and streamlined deck layouts that prioritize speed, ensuring vehicles can be secured and passengers disembarked in under 30 minutes per operation. On August 14, 2025, a bus on the car deck prompted the safe evacuation of approximately 300 passengers upon arrival in , with no injuries reported; the incident was extinguished, and operations resumed normally.

Service History

Maiden Voyage and Inauguration

The MS Megastar was delivered to Silja Oy by Shipyard on , 2017, marking the official handover of the LNG-powered ferry after its completion in . The vessel had undergone sea trials, including a five-day test in late 2016 that confirmed the functionality of its dual-fuel systems. Ahead of its commercial debut, Megastar participated in crew familiarization and training sessions following delivery, preparing for operations on the Tallinn-Helsinki route. A was held on January 27, 2017, where Group CEO Janek Stalmeister highlighted the ferry's role in enhancing and environmental performance, describing its launch as a pivotal step for the route that had grown to nearly nine million annual passengers. Media outlets, including DFNI, covered the event, emphasizing the vessel's innovative retail and amenity spaces as part of the inauguration buildup. Although the ship's formal christening had occurred earlier in July 2016 with former Finnish President as godmother, the 2017 proceedings focused on operational readiness and public unveiling. The maiden voyage commenced on January 29, 2017, with Megastar's first commercial sailing departing for at a service speed of 27 knots, replacing the older on the shuttle service. This inaugural trip symbolized the introduction of LNG propulsion to Tallink's fleet, enabling significant emission reductions including 25% less CO₂ and 85% less compared to traditional fuels. Initial operations received positive feedback, with crew and passengers praising the smooth LNG-fueled performance and onboard facilities during the early voyages. In its first six months of service through June 2017, Megastar transported 1.1 million passengers, averaging about 6,000 per day and achieving the highest ridership figures among ferries in that period.

Route and Ongoing Operations

The MS Megastar has operated exclusively on the – shuttle route since entering service in January 2017, connecting West Terminal 2 in , , to Terminal D in , . As a fast ro-pax , it maintains a typical crossing time of approximately two hours at speeds up to 27 knots, facilitating efficient short-sea transport across the . Tallink Silja Line, a of AS Tallink Grupp, manages the vessel as a core component of its fleet on this high-traffic corridor, often operating in tandem with sister ship and other vessels like Victoria I to provide up to six daily departures in each direction. The schedule typically includes early morning to late evening sailings, with the earliest departure from around 07:30 and the latest around 22:30, enabling day trips and overnight options year-round. Frequency may adjust seasonally or based on demand, with reduced sailings during off-peak periods to optimize operations while ensuring reliable connectivity for passengers and cargo. In this capacity, Megastar serves as the shuttle for the route, emphasizing speed, capacity, and LNG-powered efficiency to handle peak volumes of approximately 8 million passengers annually on the corridor. Ongoing operations have remained consistent with minor interruptions for scheduled maintenance, including its first drydocking in January 2022 at shipyard in , two-day downtimes in and 2025 for technical works, and a four-day outage from January 7 to 10, 2025. An incident in August 2025 involved the evacuation of around 300 passengers due to a bus on the car deck shortly after arrival in , but the vessel resumed service without long-term disruption. No significant route changes or capacity modifications have occurred post-2017, with Megastar continuing to support Silja's focus on sustainable, high-frequency shuttles amid growing regional demand.

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